Domaine Des Bosquets Gigondas Le Lieu Dit 2017

Gigondas is a treasure trove of value in the Rhône, and Domaine de Bosquets is a perennial favourite. The Brechet family has a long history in the Rhône Valley, and they are behind some of the most successful estates today. Domaine de Bosquets has a long history as well, back to 1376, when the first vines were planted at a lieu dit of the name "Bosquets." Over the centuries the land passed through many hands, and in 1962 it was acquired by Sylvette Brechet’s father Gabriel Meffre (also a legend in the region). Today Sylvette’s son Julien has taken over the domaine and made it his own. Julien is a passionate young man, whose winemaking prowess has earned much praise in the Rhône Valley, and his wines speak of this talent.

The winery is now run by Julien Bréchet and is one of the top estates in the whole of the Rhône. Julien has 26 hectares of vines, which are up to 75 years old and lie at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail.

Leading off the reds from this terrific estate, the 2017 Gigondas checks in as an unusual blend of 40% Grenache, 35% Syrah, 20% Mourvèdre, and the rest Cinsault that was brought up in a mix of vessels (the Grenache is in demi-muids, the Syrah in barrel) for 18 months. Its deep purple-tinged color is followed by a great bouquet of kirsch and black raspberry fruits intermixed with lots of spicy, peppery, and garrigue. It’s soft, sexy, and rounded on the palate, with medium to full-bodied richness. Drink it over the coming decade or more.

Awards:

93 Jeb Dunnuck

93 Wine Spectator

93 Vinous